Week Two-Journal
1. The most important thing that I learned this week was the importance of contextual learning applications and how the use of learning in context enhances performance and achievement. As an educator, we are trained to teach academic standards but are often not taught to emphasize individual differences and creative expression. Allowing a student to learn a concept, relative to something that they already know has a dramatic impact on the ability to internalize and transfer material.
2. There are several ways that the items learned in this course can be applied in both my professional and academic career. Although I have researched and read about the learning theories of education and their impact on education since the beginning of my undergraduate career, I still find the concepts intriguing and useful. Re-learning about educational theories, learning how to construct a useful and creative lesson plan and using relevant technologies can help me to apply constructive learning practices in teaching and in learning.
3. Although I have learned a great amount in this course already I am still wondering about how these learning applications can be transferred to a professional environment where adults are being taught. Also, I would still like to learn more about instructional software and how to implement them into online classroom learning environments. In addition to that, I am interest in learning about how Instructional Design Technology is developing on a global scale.
4. In order to successfully develop an online course or learning environment I still need to learning more information regarding technological implications and I need more practice designing critical thinking questions. In addition, I would like to learn more about teaching students to transfer skills and knowledge through online learning.
5. A self directed learner has several characteristics, that I also posses. First and foremost, a self directed learner must have interest in the material. They must be self motivated and ambitious, passing up “fun” opportunities to read text or evaluate learning materials. Self directed learners immerse themselves in the learning environment, getting fully involved and fully interested. Lastly, self-directed learners complete work on time, giving their best effort and creative input and see assignments as a learning experience as opposed to extraneous, tedious work.
